Uterine Fibroids
Relief from fibroid symptoms, on your terms.
Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. Many women have them without ever noticing. When fibroids do cause symptoms — heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, or discomfort — there are effective ways to manage them.
Fibroids are usually found during a pelvic exam or ultrasound. Not every fibroid needs treatment. If yours aren't causing problems, watchful waiting with regular monitoring may be all that's needed.
When treatment makes sense, options range from medication that manages symptoms to minimally invasive procedures that remove or shrink fibroids while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. Dr. Fan will walk you through what fits your symptoms, your anatomy, and your future plans.
Understanding uterine fibroids
Fibroids are muscular growths that develop in the wall of the uterus. They're very common, especially during the reproductive years, and they range widely in size and number. Most are benign and many cause no symptoms at all.
When fibroids do cause trouble, it's usually related to their size or location. The good news is that fibroids are well understood, and there's a broad range of options — from watchful waiting to minimally invasive treatment.
Signs and symptoms
Fibroids may cause:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or a feeling of fullness
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back discomfort
- In some cases, difficulty getting pregnant
If you're experiencing these symptoms, an evaluation can determine whether fibroids are the cause.
How we evaluate it
Fibroids are often discovered during a routine pelvic exam and confirmed with an in-office ultrasound, which shows their size, number, and location. This information guides whether treatment is needed and which options make sense.
Dr. Fan will explain what your imaging shows and, importantly, whether your fibroids need treatment at all — many don't.
Treatment options
Options depend on your symptoms and goals, and may include:
- Watchful waiting with regular monitoring for fibroids that aren't causing problems
- Medication to manage symptoms like heavy bleeding
- Minimally invasive procedures that remove or shrink fibroids
- Uterus-preserving options where fertility matters
- Surgical options for larger or more complex fibroids
Dr. Fan will help you weigh the trade-offs so the choice genuinely fits your life.
Having fibroids doesn't automatically mean treatment. Sometimes the right step is simply watching.
When to see Dr. Fan
Consider an evaluation if you have:
- Heavy periods or bleeding between cycles
- Pelvic pressure, fullness, or pain
- Frequent urination without another cause
- Been told you have fibroids and want to discuss options
Your visit, step by step.
- Step 1
Map
Exam and ultrasound to locate and size fibroids.
- Step 2
Discuss
Review symptoms, goals, and future plans.
- Step 3
Decide
Monitoring vs. active treatment.
- Step 4
Treat
Personalized medical or minimally invasive plan.
Uterine Fibroids: your questions.
More in Gynecology & Surgery.
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